The French government advises nationals to leave Mali immediately during Islamist fuel blockade
France has released an immediate advisory for its citizens in the landlocked nation to depart as soon as feasible, as jihadist fighters maintain their embargo of the country.
The French foreign ministry advised citizens to exit using commercial flights while they continue operating, and to refrain from surface transportation.
Fuel Crisis Worsens
A two-month-old fuel blockade on Mali, implemented by an al-Qaeda-affiliated faction has disrupted daily life in the main city, Bamako, and other regions of the enclosed West African country - a ex-colonial possession.
France's statement coincided with the maritime company - the largest global shipping company - revealing it was suspending its services in Mali, referencing the blockade and deteriorating security.
Insurgent Actions
The jihadist group the Islamist alliance has caused the hindrance by targeting fuel trucks on major highways.
Mali has limited sea access so every petroleum delivery are transported by road from bordering nations such as the neighboring country and CĂ´te d'Ivoire.
Global Reaction
Last month, the United States representation in Bamako stated that support diplomatic workers and their families would evacuate the nation amid the emergency.
It said the gasoline shortages had affected the energy distribution and had the "capacity to disturb" the "comprehensive stability environment" in "unpredictable ways".
Political Context
Mali is currently ruled by a military leadership commanded by the military leader, who initially took control in a coup in the past decade.
The military council had popular support when it assumed control, committing to address the long-running security crisis caused by a separatist rebellion in the northern region by Tuareg communities, which was then hijacked by radical groups.
Foreign Deployment
The UN peacekeeping mission and France's military had been stationed in the past decade to deal with the growing rebellion.
Both have departed since the junta took over, and the armed forces administration has hired foreign security contractors to combat the safety concerns.
Nevertheless, the jihadist insurgency has persisted and large parts of the northern and eastern territories of the nation persist outside government control.
